Wednesday, May 8, 2013

SSSsssssss(nake)

Note: rattlesnakes, like most other venomous snakes, can stillinflict damaging if not fatal bites even after they are 'dead'and should be handled with caution and care- if handled at all.These kiddos were never near the head while investigating ourspecimen, and after inspection this snake was laid to restin a safe, kid- and dog-void place... and all hands washed, of course!

I found my first real live in-person rattlesnake today, which is weird, because I've lived in Texas almost all my life and it feels like I should have encountered one before now.

But nope, first one today while I was cleaning up our brush pile at the back of the yard. I'm so incredibly glad I found it, and not my kids or my dog. Oh, poor rattlesnake... I hated to kill it. Such a mighty icon of our area, such a great rat-killer. If only it weren't venomous, or we had acres and acres and I could just relocate it far away from Home... but no. It had to go.

We did, however, show it some due respect. It is, after all, an amazing animal.

(I'm still feeling a little buzz of adrenaline typing this, even hours after my encounter... there's nothing like the sound of that rattle when you're not expecting it!)

About This Blogger

I am a former social worker and community educator who now gets to stay home every day with two spirited kiddos. This space is a place for me to note my learning process as I move my family toward a more handmade, seasonally-focused, and natural life. I always appreciate link love, but please don't take any images or content from this blog without my permission. Thanks for visiting!